It’s that time of the year again, when days are growing longer, sunnier, and warmer. You know what that means: It’s time to pull out the summer shorts and comfortable sandals. Before you can celebrate the new season, you need to know how to craft shorts and sandals combos that seamlessly combine comfort and style.
It’s a profound joy to style an outfit around a pair of shoes. But with the sheer volume of possibilities, it can feel a little overwhelming, too. If you’re looking to take your warm-weather wardrobe from “eh” to “yeah!” we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for the perfect list of spring fashion trends or are seeking inspiration for your next vacation, we can help. Follow our guide to pairing shorts with sandals for every summer adventure—from stylish beach outfits to dressier summer events.
Understanding the Shorts and Sandals Equation
The key to figuring out what sandals to wear with shorts lies in understanding proportion, occasion, and personal style.
The good news? There’s a perfect pairing for everyone. And the better news? Once you master a few key principles, you’ll be mixing and matching like a pro, creating endless outfit possibilities from just a handful of pieces.
Finding Your Ideal Short Length
First, sort through the shorts you have in your closet. If you have a variety, you’re in luck! There are opportunities to wear all of them—it’s just a matter of finding the right length and pairing it with the right occasion.
- Short shorts – These are a classic—especially in denim. Best reserved for beach days and very casual settings, short shorts pair well with minimal, “barely there” flat sandals—like our Evie Knit slides—for a relaxed vibe. These shorter styles work particularly well for weekend adventures. These are also some of the best shoes for summer travel when comfort is key. So, If you don’t know what footwear to pair with your favorite pair of jean shorts, go for a simple yet comfortable silhouette that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Mid-thigh shorts – The reliable best friend of shorts. Mid-thigh is the most versatile length that suits most body types and occasions. These work with nearly any sandal style, from flip-flops to wedges. They’re your go-to option that transitions easily from day to night with just a change of your top and sandals. We recommend our Uptown Sunset wedges and Maisy heeled sandals, which can take you from the picnic to the evening shindig. Next time you don’t know how to wear wedges on vacation, consider pairing them with mid-thigh summer shorts and bold accessories.
- Bermuda/knee-length shorts – These semi-casual shorts create a more sophisticated look that pairs beautifully with elevated sandal styles like low wedges or leather slides, like our Uptown Marin toe post sandal. These shorts offer more coverage while still keeping you cool, perfect for slightly more formal summer plans. Check out our women’s espadrilles for another breezy option that blends elegance with comfort. Plus, these airy sandals will help you keep cool this summer season.
- Cargo shorts – They’re back! And in the best way. These workhorse shorts offer a practical option for casual days, featuring a relaxed fit with added pockets for storing all your summer essentials. They work best with equally casual sandal styles. Keep it simple and supportive with a pair of foam sole sandals, like our Walk Max Wanderer.
There’s a lot to choose from in the world of summer shorts. And now that we’ve got that sorted, let’s mix and match!
Matching Different Shorts Styles with the Right Sandals
There’s a reason this combination has stood the test of time. Skim through any magazine or Insta feed and you’ll find countless trend-worthy shorts and sandals outfits. Shorts give you the freedom to move and stay cool, and the right pair of sandals can elevate your look from casual to sophisticated in an instant. With so many types of sandals to choose from, stepping into summer with footwear that reflects your unique style has never been more effortless.
Plus, unlike closed-toe shoes, sandals show off your pedicure (is another neon summer upon us?) and lengthen your figure flatteringly (especially for the shorter folks in the room).
Below, we’ve put together some specific styles for you to try on the next time you’re getting ready.
Denim Shorts + Wedge Sandals
Denim shorts are a summer staple. If you’re lucky, you have a tried-and-true pair in your closet. For a look that transitions seamlessly from day to night, pair your favorite jean shorts with a comfortable wedge sandal. The added height elongates your legs while still giving you the stability you need for all-day wear.
Styling tip: Keep your top half polished with a crisp white button-down or a silky camisole to balance the casual vibe of denim shorts.
Linen Shorts + Slide Sandals
For those sweltering summer days, nothing beats the breezy combination of linen shorts and slide sandals. Opt for a mid-length linen short in a neutral tone paired with simple slides for an effortlessly chic look. This cool, elegant fabric will be your summer wardrobe’s loyal companion.
Styling tip: Create a monochromatic outfit by matching your shorts color to your top for a sleek effect that looks put together with minimal effort.
Tailored Shorts + Strappy Sandals
Who says shorts can’t be work-appropriate? A pair of well-tailored Bermuda shorts paired with elegant strappy sandals creates a sophisticated look appropriate for modern office environments, after-work drinks, or weekend brunches.
Styling tip: Add a structured blazer and tuck in a silky blouse for a polished ensemble that keeps you looking sleek and professional.
Athletic Shorts + Sport Sandals
For active days when comfort is your top priority, pair athletic shorts with supportive sport sandals for the perfect athleisure outfit. Pick one that provides the arch support you need while keeping your look sporty and chic for a day at the dog park.
Styling tip: Elevate athletic shorts by choosing a matching top and adding a little jewelry for a trendy athleisure vibe.
Flowy Shorts + Heeled Sandals
Floaty, high-waisted, feminine shorts pair beautifully with heeled sandals that wrap around
the ankle. This combination creates a timeless look for summer concerts, city vacations, or casual weekend outings.
Styling tip: Add a crop top or tuck in a lightweight tank to define your waist and balance the volume flowy shorts create.
Color Coordination for Cohesion
Creating intentional color patterns between your shorts and sandals can elevate even the simplest combinations. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Monochrome – For a sophisticated, leg-lengthening effect, try matching your sandal color to your shorts. A tonal look in shades of cream, mauve, or navy creates a streamlined silhouette that feels purposeful and polished.
- Contrast – Make a statement by choosing sandals in a vibrant hue that contrasts with your shorts. Think coral sandals with navy shorts or emerald sandals with white shorts for an eye-catching combination. Add some bold accessories and you’ll be ready to go!
- Metallic Colors – Metallic sandals act as neutrals that add a touch of glamour to any shorts style. Gold, silver, and rose gold pair beautifully with everything from denim cutoffs to tailored linen skirts and other styles.
When these ideas start to feel stale mid-summer, you can always try your own combination by mixing within these three palettes to give your style a unique feel.
Accessories That Complete Your Look
The right accessories can take your shorts with sandals outfits to the next level. Often overlooked, they can bring together the simplest of looks and balance out an eccentric ensemble.
Here are some of our recommendations:
- Bags – Handbags add a practical element to your outfit. For beach days, check out straw and fabric totes for carrying all of your essentials.
- Jewelry – Delicate anklets are an elegant way to draw attention to your sandals, while statement necklaces and earrings can dress up even the most casual shorts.
- Hats – Nothing says summer like a wide-brimmed straw hat. Not only does it protect you from the sun but it adds a fun finishing touch to shorts and sandals.
- Sunglasses – The right pair of sunglasses completes any summer look and makes you feel just a little more glamorous.
Styling Shorts and Sandals for Different Body Types
Fashion is all about finding what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Here’s how to style shorts and sandals to flatter different body types:
- Pear-Shaped – If you’re fuller in your hips and thighs, look for A-line shorts that skim over your curves without clinging. Pair them with wedge sandals to create balance and draw the eye upward.
- Apple-Shaped – If you’re fuller around your middle, high-waisted shorts with a slightly longer inseam can be incredibly flattering. Pair them with flats or sandals that have interesting details to draw attention downward.
- Petite – Short shorts paired with sandals create the illusion of longer legs. Avoid ankle-strap styles that can visually cut off your leg line.
- Tall – Longer Bermuda shorts with chunky platform sandals create a stylish proportion that balances taller frames.
- Hourglass – High-waisted shorts that define your waist paired with delicate strappy sandals will showcase your proportions.
Whatever you’re getting up to in your shorts and sandals, we just hope you’re having fun.
Confidence is Your Best Accessory
The most important accessory of any outfit is confidence. Did you know that when you feel supported, comfortable, and stylish, it shows in your posture and presence?
True style emerges when you feel your best from the ground up. What sets Vionic sandals apart is our commitment to orthotic support that doesn’t sacrifice style. Our innovative Vio Motion technology provides comfort through:
- Deep heel cups to stabilize and support
- Substantial arch support to promote proper alignment
- Forefoot cushioning to reduce pressure points
That means you can wear your favorite sandals all day without discomfort, from morning errands to evening gatherings. Here’s to a season of stylish steps and confident strides!
Sources:
Harper’s Bazaar. How to Wear Athletic Shorts like a Fashion Editor. https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/trends/a61614306/athletic-shorts-trend-summer-2024/
Inc. Science Shows Good Posture Really Does Increase Your Confidence. https://www.inc.com/minda-zetlin/good-posture-confidence-boost-slouching-brain-function.html